Podcasts about Church Growth

In this powerful conversation, Greg Nettle sits down with author and pastor John Ortberg to discuss his newest book, Steps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn't Enough. Drawing inspiration from the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Ortberg reveals why this recovery-based model may actually be the most effective path to real spiritual transformation—for everyone, not just those with addiction. The conversation covers: How AA emerged from discipleship roots in the Oxford Group Why most churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One” How to foster communities of grace-filled vulnerability The critical role of desperation, community, and daily practices in spiritual growth How churches can implement the Steps curriculum and even start B12 groups (Bible + 12 Steps) John also shares about his free daily vodcast ministry, Become New, and upcoming resources for small groups and churches based on Steps, launching Fall 2025. Whether you're planting a church or trying to revitalize one, this episode offers practical wisdom and a compelling vision for deep, lasting discipleship. We hope you enjoy this podcast. For more info about Stadia Church Planting and how you can get involved, check out stadia.org. To connect with Greg Nettle, you can find him at GregNettle.com Episode Index 01:10 - John's new book *Steps* and its origin in the 12 Steps   03:00 - Why *Steps* is for everyone, not just addiction recovery   04:20 - The spiritual roots of AA and the Oxford Group   06:00 - The power of weakness and the gift of desperation   08:00 - Greg shares a baby dedication story and his own approval addiction   10:20 - Why churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One”   12:00 - Biblical examples of desperation and robust transformation   13:20 - How desperation leads to discipleship intensity   14:00 - Discipleship as both program and fellowship   16:00 - Why church needs to be more like an AA meeting   17:30 - The power of confession and shared inadequacy   19:00 - Appropriate vulnerability for pastors and leaders   21:00 - How to help your church take real steps toward transformation   22:20 - Real-life church examples like the “B12 class”   24:00 - Free video curriculum for *Steps* coming Fall 2025   25:15 - Final thoughts: encouragement for church planters  

Pursue your spiritual growth further up and further in.

Discover the radical church growth strategy that built the early church and still transforms communities today in this game-changing episode of Battle Drill Daily Devotional. #ChurchUnity #ChristianCommunity #ChurchHurt #BiblicalEncouragement #ChurchBelongingWhile churches invest millions in programmes and presentations, learn why genuine love remains the only growth strategy that actually works.Through powerful contrasts between empty state-of-the-art buildings and packed leaky halls, this episode exposes how we've professionalised love into committees and rotas, losing the magnetic authenticity that draws broken people. John 13:35 and Acts 4:32-34 reveal how the early church's explosive growth came not from clever marketing but from love so radical it shared everything – possessions, homes, lives.From the heartbreaking story of an elderly woman eating Sunday lunch alone despite attending church for months to a small congregation bursting at the seams through genuine care, discover why people can spot the difference between religious duty and real love from miles away. Essential for church leaders and members wondering why their community isn't growing.Scripture Reference: John 13:35, Acts 4:32-34, 1 John 3:18Ready to trade religious politeness for magnetic love? Listen now and learn why costly love solves church growth naturally. Share with your church leadership team.Click the Transcript tab to read today's Battle Drill Daily Devotional.Visit battledrilldevotional.com for more devotionals. Prefer watching? Check out our video devotionals at video.battledrilldevotional.com.Thanks for listening to Battle Drill Daily Devotional, where each weekday I share short, 5-minute Christian devotionals to help you stay spiritually strong and battle-ready for life's challenges. Hosted by Salvation Army officer Rob Westwood-Payne, this podcast brings daily encouragement and biblical insights to believers of all backgrounds. If today's devotional inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need encouragement. Your support helps more people discover Battle Drill Daily Devotional, a trusted source for Salvation Army devotionals and Christian faith reflections. For more devotionals and resources, visit battledrilldevotional.com. Prefer watching? Check out our video devotionals at video.battledrilldevotional.com. Connect with me on social: Twitter/X: @Battle_Drill | Instagram: @BattleDrillDevotional | Facebook: Battle Drill Daily Devotional

301 – What is the secret to church growth?How is your church doing these days? Are you growing? Are you holding steady? Are you barely hanging in there trying to keep the doors open? A lot of churches are struggling right now. Some are closing. Some are growing.What is it that makes a church not just survive but thrive? There are lots of factors, but what really helps a church grow, and I'm not just talking number of members, but more importantly, spiritual growth, the desire to follow Christ, spiritual vision and transformation, and love for the community.In this week's episode, we're going to talk about how and why the Early Church, described in the Book of Acts, grew so quickly and how it can be a model for your church to grow today.Be full of the Holy SpiritBe in the presence of the spirit of Jesus's resurrectionUnderstand how Jesus fulfills the ScripturesLove Jesus enough to obey his command to share his message with your neighborsLove your neighbors enough to actually share your faith with themLook for the opportunities to share that are always thereSpeak in a way others can understand you.When you and your church do these things, I can't guarantee you'll get a bunch of new members, but I can promise you there will a lot of spiritual growth in your church, and there are no limitations to what God can do when your hearts are on fire for Christ.Show notes: For a full transcript and all Bible quotes, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/301Text me your questions or comments.Support the showIf you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify__________________James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life. Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person) Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus) Make a donation to support the show Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you Contact James here

Psychiatrist, author and speaker Dr. Curt Thompson explores why true discipleship isn't scalable—and why that's the point. Drawing from neuroscience, church history, and the life of Jesus, he challenges the obsession with mass growth and spotlights the transformative power of small, intentional communities.Listen to the full episode here:SpotifyApple----------------------Do you ever struggle with how to share your faith with those who won't walk into a church?Ben has completely revised and updated his powerful book, Jesus in the Secular World: Reaching a Culture in Crisis—a must-read guide for anyone longing to reach those who may never step foot in a church. Packed with real-world insights and practical strategies, this book could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.Don't wait—get your copy today!Click HERE to check it out on Amazon.For more information go to: jesusinthesecularworld.com------------------------Questions, comments, or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to provokeandinspire@steiger.org, or send us a message on Instagram.Click HERE to receive news, thought-provoking articles, and stories directly in your inbox from Ben, David, Luke, and Chad!Click below to follow the regulars on Instagram!Ben PierceDavid PierceChad JohnsonLuke GreenwoodSend us a text

Send us a textMeet Melissa Dougherty. Join us as she discusses her journey from New Thought beliefs to a deeper understanding of Biblical Christianity. She explores the differences between New Thought and New Age, the identity of Jesus, and the implications of these beliefs on modern Christianity. The discussion highlights the importance of critical thinking, the dangers of autonomy in spirituality, and the need for a solid understanding of the Gospel. In this conversation, Melissa Dougherty and R. L. Solberg explore the complexities of spirituality, the dangers of false teachings, and the importance of critical thinking in faith. They discuss the impact of seeker-sensitive churches on modern Christianity, the role of emotions in spiritual experiences, and the need for discernment in understanding true theology. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of grounding one's faith in scripture and the challenges posed by contemporary spiritual movements.Defending the Biblical Roots of ChristianityOur websiteOur YouTube ChannelProf. Solberg's BlogSupport our Ministry (Thank you!)#newthought #newage #spirituality #christianity #apologetics #interview Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation03:03 Melissa Dougherty's Background and Journey05:50 Understanding New Thought vs. New Age08:49 The Influence of New Thought on Modern Beliefs12:04 Distinguishing New Thought from Biblical Christianity14:46 The Identity of Jesus and the Gospel17:56 The Role of Pain and Distrust in Belief Systems21:02 The Importance of Healing and Insight28:34 Understanding Healing Through Biblical Perspectives29:31 The Rise of New Thought and Its Impact30:45 Historical Context of New Thought Movement32:08 The Self-Help Movement's Roots in New Thought33:37 The Dangers of New Thought Theology36:18 Moral Accountability and Autonomy in Modern Beliefs37:43 Worldviews and Their Influence on Faith38:59 The Pragmatism of New Thought and Its Consequences40:59 The It Works Trap in Spiritual Practices43:38 Manifestation and Its Spiritual Implications46:16 The Dangers of False Signs and Wonders48:08 Evaluating Spiritual Experiences and Their Sources51:31 Self-Evaluation Against Biblical Standards52:20 The Importance of Logic and Critical Thinking in Faith56:12 Balancing Heart and Mind in Spirituality57:50 The Intellectual Component of Faith01:01:34 Emotions vs. Truth in Church Culture01:04:32 The Seeker Sensitive Model and Its Impact01:12:28 The Dilemma of Church Growth and Theology01:19:08 The Future of Church and Spiritual Hunger

In this powerful episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle is joined by long-time friend and influential church leader Dave Ferguson. Dave is the founding pastor of Community Christian Church, president of Exponential, and co-founder of the global church planting network NewThing—now integrated into Exponential. The conversation covers: Dave's personal and organizational transitions, including appointing a new lead pastor at Community A deep dive into his 5-step leadership apprenticeship model (from his book Hero Maker) His global perspective on a potential revival among Gen Z, especially in the UK The explosive growth of microchurches His upcoming book Multiplier (coming March 2026) Challenges the Church must face to reach the next generation, including creating safe, peace-filled spaces for those deconstructing or new to faith A must-listen for anyone passionate about multiplication, innovation, and the future of the Church. 01:15 – Dave's leadership transition at Community Christian   04:05 – Merging NewThing into Exponential   06:40 – Dave's new role as CEO of Exponential   08:00 – Life Planning: What it is and who should do it   12:00 – 5-Step Apprenticeship Model explained   15:20 – Preview of Dave's new book: *Multiplier*   16:15 – The “Quiet Revival” among Gen Z in the UK   19:45 – US stats: A spiritual shift is happening   21:18 – Church hurt & challenges for church multiplication   23:00 – Peace as the new apologetic   24:30 – Global microchurch movement—how it started   27:00 – Story: 177+ microchurches through online training   29:00 – Why now is the time to empower global leaders   29:50 – Final encouragement & close

Send us a textThis conversation explores the transformative journey of a church as it navigates a crisis that forces it to rethink its mission and methods. Drawing insights from the book 'Spent Matches', the discussion highlights the shift from an attractional model to a hybrid approach that emphasizes disciple-making and community engagement. The speakers delve into the importance of culture, training, and the need to challenge ingrained assumptions to foster growth and adaptability.TakeawaysThe church faced a crisis that revealed the limitations of its current model.A paradigm shift is necessary when old methods fail.The hybrid model combines traditional and innovative approaches to church growth.Success is redefined as disciples making disciples, not just attendance.Learning from unexpected sources can provide valuable insights for growth.Building a supportive culture is crucial for sustaining movement.Training and retraining are essential for effective disciple-making.Language matters; small changes can remove barriers to engagement.Understanding the Dunning-Kruger effect is vital for humility in learning.Challenging assumptions can lead to breakthroughs in personal and organizational growth.Resources: Resource GuideListen in one of 20 different languages - !Coming Soon!*This is an AI generated podcast

The Areopagites tackle the recent revival, return, reaction, resurgence – whatever you want to call it – that is bringing more people into churches all over the world.

What does it look like to multiply disciples and churches across cultures, languages, and borders? In this episode, Jesse Cruickshank sits down with Obe and Jacqueline Arellano, leaders of Exponential Español, to explore the vibrant and growing movement of the Spanish-speaking church—both in the United States and throughout Latin America.From their base in Mexico City, the Arellanos are equipping churches to move from decline and plateau into reproduction and multiplication. They share what's translating well across contexts, how principle-based discipleship is catalyzing change, and why the Hispanic church may be the key to revitalizing Christianity in North America.We also dive into the complex realities of immigration, spiritual warfare, and the prophetic opportunity for the Latin American church to become a refuge and a launching pad for mission. Whether you're in a traditional church or pioneering new expressions of faith, this conversation is an invitation to participate in something bigger than yourself.Find Exponential Español here: https://multiplicacion.org/Insta: Obe – @obearellano, Jacqueline – @jaqueline.r.arellanoExponential Español – @exponentialespanolFacebook:Obe – @obearellano, Exponential Español – @exponentialespanolJacqueline @cafeconjackORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church. ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Frontiers in Faith podcast, Monsignor Roger Landry speaks with Father Solomon Zaku, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Nigeria. They discuss the state of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, the challenges posed by Boko Haram, and the resilience of the faith among Nigerian Catholics despite severe persecution. Father Solomon shares insights into the mission work being done within Nigeria and how the global church supports these efforts. He also highlights the vibrant spirituality and increasing vocations in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of solidarity within the universal church.Click here to learn more about supporting the Pontifical Missions Societies:https://pontificalmissions.orgFollow us on socials!https://x.com/tpms_usahttps://www.instagram.com/tpms_us/

Consistency is hard—unless you steal my system. In this episode, I break down my exact weekly summer content rhythm for youth ministry using the ☀️ Summer Seasonal Social Media Pack: 1 spiritual reel, 1 fun reel, 1 carousel, and some bonus hybrid magic. You'll get the full template, schedule, and content—so you can stay consistent, connected, and (mostly) sane all summer long. ☀️ SUMMER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry/shop/summer-seasonal-social-media-1540452?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=productsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link *

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton hosts Jeff Duerler and Andy Dalton from LifeSpring Community Church in Cincinnati. They share their unique journey from traditional church settings to pioneering microchurch movements. Jeff discusses his long pastoral journey, the transition from multi-site to autonomous churches, and the divine guidance that led them to explore church planting. Andy shares his personal story of obedience and the call to church planting, emphasizing the importance of family considerations and the influence of disciple-making movements. Together, they reflect on the challenges and joys of following God's leading in their ministry. 

1. Seth continues his review of Luke 8, examining the family of Jesus.2. Seth responds to a submission about presenting the gospel.3. Seth discusses church growth methods.

Jesus is building His church—but what do we do when there's no more room? We take our cues from four desperate friends: we tear the roof off. This week is a call to radical faith and sacrificial mission, to do whatever it takes to get people to Jesus.

In this episode, Greg Nettle talks with Dean Sweetman, co-founder and co-CEO of Tithely, a digital giving platform now used by over 50,000 churches worldwide. Dean shares his remarkable journey from being a high school dropout and aspiring surfer in Australia to planting over 60 churches globally and building a church tech company processing billions in donations annually. Key highlights: Dean's unconventional path into church planting across Asia, Africa, and North America. Why demographic research + Holy Spirit leading matters when choosing a church plant location. How a Starbucks app experience inspired the creation of Tithely. The impact of recurring digital giving on financial stability for churches. Future of church tech: AI, VR, and holographic gospel preaching. Resources mentioned: Tithely's free tools for church planters (https://get.tithe.ly/) Stadia Church Planting (https://stadia.org) Learn more about church planting with Stadia: https://stadia.org/discovery 01:18 – Dean's early life & conversion story   02:44 – Becoming a youth pastor and seminary in Australia   04:10 – Global missions & planting churches in Asia and Africa   06:08 – Real estate and bi-vocational ministry   07:30 – Choosing Atlanta for church planting   09:13 – The power of sending leaders to plant   11:00 – Planting 60+ churches through C3 movement   13:07 – The Starbucks moment: inspiration for Tithely   16:09 – Launching the first giving app with his son   17:11 – Sabbatical and shifting from pastor to entrepreneur   18:28 – Explosive growth during COVID (12K churches in 6 weeks)   20:14 – Building an all-in-one church platform   21:11 – Discipleship through digital giving   23:31 – Tech adoption in younger generations   24:18 – Getting started with Tithely   25:01 – Power of recurring giving   26:15 – AI, AR, and the future of church tech    

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton Smith interviews Mark Douglas, exploring his journey from a traditional pastoral role to a more transformative approach to ministry. Mark shares his experiences of feeling inadequate and frustrated within the prevailing church model, the challenges he faced in his ministry, and the realizations that led him to seek a different path. The conversation delves into the systemic issues within the church, the importance of evangelism, and the personal struggles that shaped Mark's faith journey. He discusses the challenges of resignation, the healing process through grace, and the importance of community. 

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen unpacks why the future of pastoral ministry isn't about better preaching, trendier content, or digital strategy, it's about returning to the roots of relational leadership. In a time when sermons can be streamed and content is everywhere, the greatest impact comes from something far more personal. AI might write sermons, but it can't do pastoral care. Online church is helpful—but it's the echo of the echo. The pastors people remember are the ones who showed up. Deep connection over drive-by engagement.  H2H (human-to-human) skills are the new essential leadership trait. Whether you're leading a church, nonprofit, or school, this conversation will help you rethink how you connect—and why the most meaningful ministry moments are still the most human.

Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. Today we're joined by Shayla McCormick, Executive Pastor at Coastal Community Church, a thriving multisite church in South Florida known for its authentic culture and rapid growth. How do you build and protect a thriving staff culture as your church grows? Tune in as Shayla offers practical, actionable insight […]

What does it really mean to walk in spiritual authority—and why do so many of us confuse titles and positions for the real thing? In this episode, Christine Caine and Jessie Cruickshank get honest about the difference between worldly influence and Kingdom authority, why identity matters more than a job description, and how genuine spiritual power always comes with testing and formation. They wrestle with the tension between activity and anointing, the pitfalls of confusing influence with authority, and the practical wisdom it takes to discern God's assignment for your life. This is a conversation about spiritual discernment, learning to hear God's voice, and being shaped for the work ahead.Christine's Website: christinecaine.comORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church. ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.

20250531 - Church Growth and Revivals - SAT AM Radio by God's Unchanging Words in a Changing World

Richie Halversen is the Director of Church Growth and Revitalization for the Southern Union, where he equips church revitalizers and lay leaders to maximize their impact in evangelism and church renewal. He has been married to his wife, Britney, for 25 years. They have four children: Kaleb, Hayley, Tristen, and Taylor. The Halversens live in the Chattanooga area and enjoy spending time together hiking, disc golfing, and playing games.

Spiritual gifts are special abilities God gives believers to build up the church, coming as spontaneous manifestations, enduring abilities, or vocational roles. True discernment requires knowing Scripture thoroughly, as genuine gifts always align with God's Word. While Mark 16 mentions signs following believers, these apply corporately to the church rather than to every individual. Christians should recognize that spiritual warfare is real, though we often blame demons for our own issues. God's miraculous power continues today, though we may not always understand why some prayers for healing go unanswered.Support the show

In this conversation with Emanuel Prinz, we dig into his latest research, exploring what actually catalyzes movements, the kinds of leaders and teams that sustain them, and what blocks them from taking root. We'll talk about the personal and spiritual qualities of movement catalysts, why reproducibility matters more than charisma, and how partnering with God, rather than simply following a method—is essential to see lasting fruit. Along the way, we wrestle with questions of multiplication, DNA, and the risks of bottleneck leadership. If you care about genuine spiritual movement, if you want to see communities transformed and leaders multiplied, not just in theory but in practice, you won't want to miss this episode. So join us because this conversation is packed with wisdom and hard-won insight for anyone longing to shift culture in meaningful ways.DR. EMANUEL PRINZ has partnered with God to start a movement in North Africa and speaks from personal experience. He has researched kingdom Christian movements across the globe for fifteen years. Currently, he serves ministries worldwide as an expert movement consultant, coach, trainer, and researcher, facilitating their progression toward movements. Through his Exponential Disciple-Making and MOVES Coaching trainings, more than 12,000 leaders in over fifty countries have been equipped. Prinz has taught at Columbia International University, the European School for Culture and Theology, and Bethany Global University. He is the author of Movement Catalysts and numerous articles in journals such as Missiology, Evangelical Missions Quarterly, Global Missiology, Journal of the Evangelical Missiological Society, Mission Frontiers, as well as in Christianity Today. Above all, he seeks to live as the Father's beloved. He blogs at www.catalyticleadership.info.Emanuel's Book:What Actually Starts MovementsEmanuel's Recommendation:The Forgotten WaysSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Friar TimeThrough meaningful interviews and heartfelt conversations, Friar Time, hosted by Fr....Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Richie Halversen is the Director of Church Growth and Revitalization for the Southern Union, where he equips church revitalizers and lay leaders to maximize their impact in evangelism and church renewal. He has been married to his wife, Britney, for 25 years. They have four children: Kaleb, Hayley, Tristen, and Taylor. The Halversens live in the Chattanooga area and enjoy spending time together hiking, disc golfing, and playing games.

Richie Halversen is the Director of Church Growth and Revitalization for the Southern Union, where he equips church revitalizers and lay leaders to maximize their impact in evangelism and church renewal. He has been married to his wife, Britney, for 25 years. They have four children: Kaleb, Hayley, Tristen, and Taylor. The Halversens live in the Chattanooga area and enjoy spending time together hiking, disc golfing, and playing games.

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton Smith interviews Suzie Judd, a pastor and catalyst for disciple-making movements. Suzie shares her journey of faith, her early life, and the formation of her church with her husband, Matt. They discuss their approach to evangelism, the impact of signs and wonders, and the importance of empowering believers to share their faith. Suzie emphasizes the need for lasting fruit in ministry and the challenges they faced in transitioning their church's focus towards equipping every believer to be a laborer in the harvest.

It appears there are too many CEO-like metrics being used to gauge the success of a church. There is a better way.  You can check out the rest of T.M.'s thoughts here.  Learn more and pick up a copy of my book for yourself. I would also encourage you to check out this list of blog posts and video clips where I discuss in more depth the right and wrong metrics for our churches and para-church ministries. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Morning:Third Day Morning: God Creator and Controller: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/third-day-morning-god-creator-and-controller/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson, May 27Numbers 36: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Numbers+36Psalm 80: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+80Isaiah 28: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Isaiah+282 John 1: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=2+John+1The Broken HeartEvening:Self-NoughtingSpurgeon's Morning and Evening, May 27, Evening: https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2025/05/27Message: Marks Of A God-Glorifying, Kingdom Advancing Church, Pt. 7 - Church Growth, Acts 2:47, Pastor Don Thomas (May 18)Third Day Evening: Before Sleep: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/third-day-evening-before-sleep/Resources:Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson: https://www.amazon.com/Glorifying-God-Inspirational-Messages-Thomas/dp/140418712X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RxmikVPx1TbCsaSCjkzxXvQu3AKtIrHMzUnVuUojQXDf94C0nKibszGVgpGBwttw2fMNOjz4KCLQtgLkdNcXCQ.m9etrS0_7bNsGcyvw3NtwysBMrVzvuUG8XBRpIRXH7E&qid=1708794474&sr=8-1M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan: https://www.mcheyne.info/mcheyne-reading-plan/Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school

Today, this episode is all about the local church at Antioch in the early days. Do you remember some of the particulars that Dr. Luke and the Apostle Paul documented about that extraordinary church? Well, for two thousand years, Antioch has been an amazing model for local churches desiring high impact for God's mission. Join Kevin as we walk through the nine key lessons for our churches that we can glean from the church at Antioch! // Download this episode's Application & Action questions and PDF transcript at whitestone.org.

Church Elder Jerry Lowry takes a look at how we can learn from the success of the Church at Philippi. 

Carey answers your questions about whether there are limits to church growth, what to do if your elders try to micromanage you, and how to know who to fire and how to do it.

Patria Lead Pastor Adam Mesa shares how viral podcasting helped grow his church from 1,100 to 7,500+ in five years, his experience as a millennial taking over leadership from his dad, and navigating the strengths and challenges of ADHD.  

Many churches doubt the value of investing heavily in "Big Days" (think: Easter Services) when attendance drops the following week. In this episode, we debunk this myth with five data-backed takeaways that prove big days are crucial for long-term church growth. From creating adequate space and mobilizing volunteers to leveraging baptism moments and implementing effective follow-up systems, discover how to transform Easter momentum into sustained church growth. Learn why the 'big day strategy' works and how to measure success beyond week-to-week attendance fluctuations.Church Merger 1-Day - The Church Merger Playbook: ⁠https://breakinggrowthbarriers.com/#Events⁠Website: ⁠https://breakinggrowthbarriers.com⁠Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/breakinggrowthbarriersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/breakinggrowthbarriersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakinggrowthbarriers

Very few churches are growing, which means most pastors will lead plateaued or declining congregations. Some pastors experience an entire ministry career in no-growth situations. Why does this happen? Josh and Sam discuss several reasons why some pastors never experience church growth. The post Why Some Pastors Never Experience Church Growth appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, host Greg Nettle is joined by Tim Celek from Stadia's post-launch team and two dynamic kids ministry leaders from Georgia—Brittany Ara of City Church Griffin and Robyn Alexander of Foundation Christian Church. Together, they outline five essential principles for church leaders who want to reach and disciple the next generation: Safety isn't optional – Every church needs a clear child protection policy. Not sure where to start? Ask neighboring churches to share their handbooks. Leadership matters – Recruit leaders who can lead teams, not just love kids. Burnout is real without shared responsibility. Let kids serve – Kids and teens need hands-on opportunities to experience their faith, not just hear about it. Know your ‘one' – Ditch cookie-cutter strategies and design ministry that fits your local community's needs and rhythms. Recruit with vision, not guilt – Celebrate wins from the stage, don't beg for volunteers. Help your team build a long-term system for healthy recruiting. They also share fun, creative ideas like using an ice cream truck for outreach and creating dual summer camp models for different demographics. It's a practical, passionate guide for any church looking to multiply its impact through children's ministry. 00:26 – Meet Brittany Ara & Robyn Alexander   02:10 – Why Stadia Prioritizes the Next Generation   03:15 – 5 Things Every Church Leader Needs to Know   03:45 – #1: Safety Must Come First   07:13 – #2: Healthy Kids Ministry Requires Strong Leadership   12:00 – #3: Empower Kids & Teens to Serve   14:00 – Creative Outreach Ideas: Ice Cream Truck Ministry   17:00 – Involving Kids in "Big Church"   19:11 – #4: Forget What You've Seen Before – Know Your Community   21:00 – Real-Life Camp Examples That Meet Families Where They Are   25:39 – Balancing Technology in Kids Ministry   26:00 – #5: Volunteer Recruiting Should Be Vision-Driven   29:00 – What Keeps These Leaders Going  

What's the one thing that can produce lasting fruit in our parish ministries?If we want to see real growth in areas like attendance, vocations, and community life, we must focus on making and maturing disciples. There are no shortcuts—superficial fixes won't yield lasting change. True fruitfulness comes from healthy individuals, thriving ministries, and a clear vision rooted in mission. In this episode, I break it all down using the metaphor of a fruit tree—and show why discipleship is the key to everything. [00:34]Vision for Bearing Fruit [00:55] Desiring Good Fruits [02:33] The Role of Discipleship [03:12] Avoiding Shortcuts [04:04] Importance of Branches [05:07] Focusing on the Roots [05:54] Satisfying the Lord's Thirst [07:04] Final Prayer and Reflection [07:46] Closing Remarks For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

In this episode Adam sits down with Taylor Burgess of Cross Community Church in Beaufort, SC to talk about planting in a highly unchurch, transient town with a military base, and the role of prayer in church growth.

Rescue Society, Not Yacht Club: Sustaining Your YesScripture References: Matthew 20:1-28Sermon Intro: Welcome! Today, reflecting on our church's journey and recent powerful baptisms, we dive into the heart of our mission – not just beholding Jesus, but the "so that" part: seeing the lost found, prodigals return, disciples made, and churches planted. As we look to the future, the crucial question isn't just what we'll do, but how we'll sustain it. How do we avoid "mission creep"? How do we ensure we remain a dynamic "rescue society" and don't slowly drift into becoming a comfortable "yacht club," forgetting why we started? How do we sustain a life of sacrifice and service for decades to come?Key Points:Beware the Yacht Club - What Do You Deserve? (Matt 20:1-16):The Parable of the Vineyard Workers challenges our sense of fairness. Service can breed entitlement ("I worked longer, I deserve more").We must fight this by remembering GRACE. As Christians, we gave up demanding "fair" – we don't want what we truly deserve!Sustaining service means constantly battling entitlement and remembering God's generosity, even when it doesn't seem "fair" by worldly standards. We never deserve more than the privilege of serving God and others.Fuel for the Long Haul - How Do You See God? (Matt 20:17-19):Jesus predicts His own suffering and sacrifice for us.To sustain our service, we must stay connected to how He serves us. Is your focus primarily on what you do for God, or on what He has done and continues to do for you?Remembering His sacrifice, His carrying the burden, His constant work on our behalf is the fuel for sustained missions.Kingdom Values - How Do You Define Greatness? (Matt 20:20-28):The request of Zebedee's sons highlights a worldly definition of greatness (position, power).Jesus redefines greatness: it's service, humility, being last, being a slave. It's "momness."Sustaining our "yes" requires embracing His definition of greatness. Any position or influence is for serving, not being served. Servant leadership isn't an option; it's the only model.Sermon Conclusion: We are committed to remaining a rescue society. This requires actively fighting the drift towards comfort and entitlement. We do this not by trying harder, but by remembering: remembering the grace we didn't deserve, remembering Jesus' immense sacrifice for us (suffering outside the gate to rescue us), and embracing His upside-down definition of greatness. Let's keep going out on rescue missions together.Call to Action: Examine your heart:Where might entitlement be creeping in regarding your service? Ask God to help you see through the lens of grace.Reflect on how Jesus serves you daily. Let gratitude fuel your service.Are you pursuing worldly greatness or Kingdom greatness (service)? Recommit today to being part of the rescue society, choosing sustained sacrifice over comfort, fueled by the love and grace of Jesus. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

Send us a textToday we welcome Karl Vaters to the podcast. Karl has served in a small church ministry for 40 years, with a handful of pastoral experiences. He is the author of numerous books and hosts a bi-weekly podcast - The Church Lobby: Conversations on Faith & Ministry.  He is the author of De-Sizing the Church: How the Church Growth Movement Became Science, then an obsession, and what's next.  

In this powerful message, we're invited to reflect on the birth of the early church as described in Acts 2. The story of Pentecost reminds us of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the importance of responding to God's call. We see how Peter's bold proclamation of Jesus as Lord and Messiah led to the conversion of thousands. This challenges us to consider: Who is Jesus to us? Are we willing to repent, believe, and be baptized? The early believers' devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer serves as a model for us today. Their Spirit-filled living attracted others to the faith, showing us that our lives can be a powerful testimony. As we contemplate making more room in our hearts and communities for God's work, let's be inspired by the early church's example of radical generosity, community, and commitment to the Gospel.

Parish renewal is the buzzword of the moment—and with it comes an overwhelming array of resources and ministries. So how do you cut through the noise to find what will truly help your parish move forward? In today's episode, I talk with Susan Windley-Daoust, author of The Four Ways Forward: Becoming an Apostolic Parish in a Post-Christian World (https://www.osvcatholicbookstore.com/the-four-ways-forward-becoming-an-apostolic-parish-in-a-post-christian-world.html). Susan encourages us to focus on renewal models that prioritize: * Radical hospitality * Small group discipleship * Mission refocus * Signs and wonders Look for resources that align with these key principles and have a proven track record. Engage your parish leadership team in discernment, and don't be afraid to start small—what matters most is finding what genuinely supports your parish's growth in missionary identity. Want more practical insights? Tune in now! [04:10] The Call to Evangelization [19:11] Challenges in Modern Parishes [28:30] The Four Ways Forward [33:50] Respecting Individuality in Evangelization [34:18] The Power of First Proclamation [37:16] Embracing Small Groups for Spiritual Growth [43:36] Mission Refocus and Organizational Health [50:49] Elevating Signs and Wonders [58:32] Encouragement for Evangelization [01:03:15] The Mark 5:19 Project Don't forget to check out Susan's book (https://www.osvcatholicbookstore.com/the-four-ways-forward-becoming-an-apostolic-parish-in-a-post-christian-world.html) and the Mark 5:19 Project (https://mark519project.org/)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen to talk about one of the toughest leadership decisions: knowing when it's time to add a team member — and when it's time to let someone go. Drawing on lessons from church plants, nonprofits, and businesses alike, William shares practical advice, honest stories, and leadership insights for navigating team changes wisely. Key discussion points include: The Volunteer to Staff Shift: How to know when a volunteer is too vital to leave unpaid — and why delaying can cost you. Living on Margin: Why operating with financial margin is crucial to growing your team the right way. Hiring Doers vs. Leaders: How recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers is the real engine behind church and nonprofit growth. Avoiding Cheap Leadership: Why underpaying (or over-relying on free labor) eventually backfires — and what Scripture says about honoring laborers. Building a Resilient Team: Why every leader needs a “vomit list” — and how to plan for the inevitable transitions ahead. Whether you're leading a startup, growing a church, or scaling a nonprofit, this conversation will give you practical tools for building a stronger, healthier team — one wise decision at a time.

The hosts discuss the headlines of the month. Is America an oligarchy? A long-term study about ADHD medication and whether the church is growing or declining. - Website: cfc.sebts.edu - Contact us: cfc.sebts.edu/about/contact-us/ - Support the work of the Center: cfc.sebts.edu/about/give/ All opinions and views expressed by guest speakers are solely their own. They do not speak for nor represent SEBTS. Read our expressed views and confessions: www.sebts.edu/about/what_we_believe.aspx

In this episode of the Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle welcomes his longtime friend Brian Tome, founder and senior pastor of Crossroads Church in Cincinnati. Brian unpacks the unfiltered reality of church planting—from answering a magazine ad with 11 strangers to building a church that reaches tens of thousands weekly. He shares how grit, vision clarity, and authenticity have shaped his journey, recounts his “two-for-one” approach to core team building, and challenges leaders to relentlessly pursue new people, not just transfer Christians. Brian and Greg discuss lessons learned the hard way, the importance of work ethic, and the pain and payoff of staying true to your calling—even when it means “ripping people's ears off” before they rip off yours. Brian also dives into Crossroads' outreach—like fighting sex trafficking in Nepal, developing software for prison ministry, and building the CityLink Center. He reflects on personal health, relational boundaries, and leading with authenticity (yes, even smoking a Marlboro onstage once to make a point!). The conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone in the trenches of church leadership or just starting out. Books/Resources Mentioned: The Five Marks of a Man by Brian Tome Man Camp Robert Lewis' books on outreach and apologetics 01:20 - Brian's journey to Cincinnati and unexpected beginnings 03:08 - The reality of early church planting: 11 people, high risk 04:30 - Building the core: relentless networking and vision casting 05:28 - Church planting in the 90s: no playbook, pure hustle 06:07 - Work ethic and chasing the right people for the vision 08:01 - Defining and protecting the church's vision 09:21 - Vision morphs: from seeker to world-changing community 10:23 - Crossroads' growth: campuses, online reach, and impact 11:11 - Outreach: Fighting sex trafficking, prison ministry, CityLink Center 12:00 - How outreach became central to Crossroads' DNA 13:44 - Outrageous generosity and its ripple effect 14:21 - What Brian wishes he knew starting out: double-edged sword of no systems 15:54 - Creativity vs. standardization: finding your unique path 16:50 - The power and limitation of mentors and advice 18:52 - Keys to long-term health: personal, relational, spiritual 21:19 - Building authentic relationships inside the church 22:43 - Hobbies, friendships, and avoiding isolation in ministry 23:09 - The cost and value of authenticity in leadership 24:51 - Navigating church culture: authenticity and boundaries 26:13 - Authenticity means sharing struggles, not just victories 27:32 - Preaching: teaching rhythms, preparation, and team development 30:05 - Finding your own preaching rhythm and developing others 31:44 - Loving your spouse while leading a growing church 32:55 - Last words: legacy, faithfulness, and friendship

Today InPerspective with Dr. Harry Reeder April 11, 2025

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   Can an older church resume growing?  Chris Schwartzenberger and the church in Spokane, Washington shows it's possible.  After hovering around 100 disciples for years, the church has gone from 100 to 140 members in the last two years.  Find out what God is doing and what Chris is doing in leading the church to greater things.